There are many problems throughout the text labeled IN YOUR OWN WORDS. Just relax; do not be afraid
to give your opinion. For the most part, these questions do not have "right" or "wrong" answers.
You should spend about five minutes in answering each of these questions. Problems
3-5 ask you to describe each of the three procedures for solving systems of equations.
Graph the solution to each equation separately. If necessary, you can review the
procedure for graphing lines in Section 15.1 Be sure to label your axes and label a
scale before graphing the two lines. Then, after the lines are graphed, find the
point of intersection (if the lines are not parallel), and list the ordered pairs
for that point. See Example 1.
These problems are using the substitution method. Solve one of the two equations
for one of the variables (if necessary). Then substitute into the other equations as
shown in Example 2.
These problems are using the addition method. If
necessary, multiply both sides of one (or both) of the equations by a number
(or numbers) so that the coefficients on one of the variables are opposites.
Then, add the equations to eliminate one of the variables as shown in Example 3.
See Examples 1-3. You can work these by any method. Generally, substitution is the easiest
unless the coefficients of one of the variables are opposites. Graphing is generally not
recommended unless using a graphing calculator.
However, as you go through the book be sure you look at
all the examples in the text. If you need hints for the
Level 3 problems, check some sources for help on the internet
(see the LINKS for that particular section. As a last resort,
you can call the author at (707) 829-0606.
On the other hand, the problems designated "Problem Solving"
generally require techniques that do not have textbook examples.
There are many sources for homework help on the internet.
Algebra.help
Here is a site where technology meets mathematics. You can
search a particular topic or choose lessons, calculators,
worksheets for extra practice or other resources.
http://www.algebrahelp.com/
Ask Dr. Math
Dr. Math is a registered trademark. This is an excellent site
at which you can search to see if your question has been previously
asked, or you can send your question directly to Dr. Math
to receive an answer.
http://mathforum.org/dr/math/
Quick Math
This site provides online graphing calculators. This is especially
useful if you do not have your own calculator.
http://www.quickmath.com/
The Math Forum @ Drexel
This site provides an internet mathematics library that
can help if you need extra help. For additional homework
help at this site, click one of the links in the right-hand
column.
http://mathforum.org/
Mathematics Home Page
Access the Clemens and Alcuins Library of CSB/SJU and find
one of the world's best collections of mathematical internet
sites.
http://library.csbsju.edu/rqs.phtml?subject_id=32